30 years ago, I was visiting a pastor friend who lived very close to 275 and mlk blvd in Tampa. While on the preachers porch he said “look over there” a one legged man was sitting on a blanket asking for help at the light on the exit ramp. Of course the scene was pitiful. My friend said look up under the over pass, where 275 goes over mlk. A bicycle was just under 275. He told me the man was very nice and he makes a great living of $90,000 a year doing this and through the day he receives more food then he can eat. The man was not on dope or had any substance abuse but this was his gig that supplied his family with a great life. Nice home and car. At 6 pm the one leg man (he camouflaged himself with the blanket to appear to have one leg) he would get up and walked up underneath the overpass and get his bike to ride home. I couldn’t believe it but was true. Today in many towns and cities when these homeless move in crime, drug use, and criminal activity increases. The only way to stop this in our streets is to quit giving to them. Give to the street missions to help them help the people in need after you learn how they spend and what they are doing for the community. (Just a suggestion). I understand in some places the homeless will fight each other over the best areas to do their begging. Most of these people are not wonderful people. They are killing them selves with substance abuse. Which we the givers are helping them kill their selves. Yes I did go through drive thru’s and attempt to give meals but surprisingly they refused and snarled at me. Not all but too many. Some areas they are sent out by a leader to cover areas of a town, possibly begging on percentage. Many can work but why should they, if they support their habits with your money! If they don’t get cash, they flee to another town! This problem will get worse and worse
|